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Week one of #100daysofproductivity

I spend a lot of time on Instagram, probably more than I should, and I saw Anke Wenkmann’s #100daysofproductivity challenge. I watched for a few days, seeing her to do list pop up on her story each morning, and again in the evening as things got ticked off. I had just completed #folktaleweek and had really enjoyed the extra drive I got from following a challenge. So, the timing was perfect, in fact it was even more perfect than I realised, but more on that at the end.

I downloaded the printable template that Anke had created pulled on my action pants, visualised myself as a pencil wielding superhero and decided to give it a go.

Productivity is a positive thing but I knew that I was susceptible to getting overwhelmed by the feeling I need to constantly achieve things, so I set myself a few rules to make it more enjoyable:

1) Everyday tasks, such as going to the supermarket, washing clothes and cooking dinner will not go on my ‘To Do’ list. They are things that have to happen anyway and I don’t feel the need to focus on them.

2) I am limiting my list to three things only. This has proven to be a bit tough – somethings need planning out with lots of mini tasks but I do that separately. But rather than stressing out over an ever-growing list of things to do I could just concentrate on three goals for the day

3) At the end of the day I would give myself a shiny star on the chart. It may seem insignificant but I actually really enjoy the reward. I like stars anyway plus I’m essentially a big kid who really likes getting a well done sticker.

I post my list each day on my Instagram story and then set to work. It’s probably a little dull for those following but it gives me a sense of accountability. Especially when I tried to shirk tidying my studio – after putting the photo up it niggled at me until I caved and tidied it any way. It actually only took 10 minutes – what had I been moaning about?

So, this first week has taught me that:

I love a challenge (and a reward)

I needed the extra focus on getting things finished.

To give a task at least 10minutes before I try to quit

Energy spent complaining can be used for something else

And the timing is absolutely perfect as 100 days from the start of the challenge takes me right up to my birthday!